I Saw Three Ships

The origin, author and composer of the carol 'I saw three ships' are unknown but the imagery of three ships is considered to be positive, optimistic and sign of good luck. Some experts place this carol in England from the Victorian era. The repetitive chorus lines make it more melodious to listen and easy to remember.

I saw three ships come sailing by
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day.
I saw three ships come sailing by
On Christmas Day in the morning.

And what was in those ships all three
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day?
And what was in those ships all three
On Christmas Day in the morning?

The Virgin Mary and Christ were there
On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day.
The virgin Mary and Christ were there
On Christmas Day in the morning.